Archive for the ‘@SteadicamOp (Josh's posts)’ Category
Shoot Your Wedding: Choosing The Right Style of Photography
The style of your photographer does have some technical and procedural differencs in how your wedding is shot. The following tips should help you to decide which photographers that are compatible with you.
Level of Control
Traditional photographers and fashion style shooters do a fair amount of directing (you & your guests) in order to achieve their results. Photojournalist photographers tend to be less direct and more at a distance when they are shooting. This is a great alternative for couples who want to focus more on the day.
Quantity vs. Quality
The journalistic photographers will typically shoot thousands of photos and edit down to create a coherent and thoughtful story of your day. Traditional shooters will often spend more time per shot and so are more methodical in their shooting process. Their pace can be very different. In either case, it’s not quantity that matters but the quality of the final few (hundred?) delivered to you.
Your “Must Have” Shot List
If you have a super definite list of shots you cannot live without, you are probably are better off without a photojournalistic photographer. Their forte is to capture what is happening, and not a predetermined list you (or they) create. However, the traditionalists can be particularly comfortable with preplanned lists of ‘must have’ shots.
Post processing / manipulation
Be aware of a photographer’s manipulation style. Some photographers do minor edits, while some do extensive manipulation in order to achieve certain looks. Its essential to make sure the look of their photographs is consistent with their style.
Shoot Your Wedding | Four Tips To Help Your Photographer Capture The Photographs You Desire
Finding and hiring a professional photographer to document your wedding day is a sizable investment, in not only money, but time as well. By doing your research and hiring a professional that suits your style, you can be rest assured that he or she is going to capture your day exactly how you want. Here are a few tips to help your photographer capture the best images of you.
1. Develop a personal relationship with your photographer. By the time your wedding day arrives, you should consider your photographer a friend, not just another vendor. This can seem like a difficult task to accomplish, considering how busy and hectic the months leading up to the big day can be, but it can be done. Phone calls, emails, any form of conversation will work and it most certainly doesn’t need to pertain to the business of your wedding. The stronger this sense of friendship is between you and the photographer, not only will you feel more comfortable and relaxed around him or her, the rest of the wedding party will as well. As soon as the guard comes down, the photographic magic happens.
2. Be yourself. This may seem like common sense, but it can be more difficult than you might think. Most people aren’t used to having a photographer document their every move, especially with intimidating looking professional equipment. Though they may not realize it, people tend to carry themselves and act differently as soon as a camera is pointed at them, which looks stiff and unnatural in photographs. Others just freeze up altogether. Unless your photographer is giving you specific direction, the best thing you can do is relax, be yourself, and act as if the photographer wasn’t even there. If your nervous about getting your picture taken, then definitely do the research and pick someone that does not have a large crew and piles of gear that will take you away from your moment. Pay special attention to your hands, they are a good indication of how tense you really are. Relax your hands and the rest of you will follow. No need to put on an act, simply be yourself.
3. Look through magazines, on-line, and, of course, through your photographer’s portfolio for specific examples of images, scenes, and body positions that appeal to you and share these ideas with your photographer before hand. It will give both you and the photographer a better sense of direction when working together. Also, if you internalize these ideas and are able to carry and position yourself in a similar way without having to be completely directed by the photographer, the photographs will look much more natural. The more the photographer must direct, the more awkward you will feel and it will show in the images.
4. Enjoy your wedding day. This may seem like common sense, but with the anticipation and stress involved in planning the perfect day, it can be difficult to actually enjoy it. While there is certainly no way to eliminate the stress and worry completely, you can minimize it. You have been planning this day for months, even years, and once it finally arrives, relax and enjoy it. You certainly deserve to and doing so will translate to more natural looking images.
Premium Vendor Showcase: Pine Forest Jewelry
What was your inspiration for creating a jewelry store?
Creating a business that deals in expressions of love, beauty, inspiration, sentiment, emotion, creativity, and provides real value beyond the intangibles.
“When love and skill work together, expect a masterpiece.”
John Ruskin
English critic, essayist, & reformer (1819 – 1900)
Tell a little bit about the history of your store:
Pineforest Jewelry, Inc. is a Texas corporation that has serviced the East Houston community since May 1, 1986. The directors are “Diamond Jim” Mills, the President and CEO, along with his wife, Linda Mills, the Secretary/Treasurer and store manager. Pineforest Jewelry is a full service jewelry store with retail, custom design, repair, manufacturing, wholesale, distribution, and internet divisions. The entire operation is housed in the 7200 square foot building owned by Mills Diversified, Ltd. It is located in a central business area on the east side of Houston at 1141 Uvalde Road, Houston, TX 77015, two blocks north of I-10 East.
The retail division provides gold, silver, and platinum jewelry, moissanite jewelry, diamond jewelry, pearls, jewelry for children and teens, loose diamonds, precious stones, mother’s rings, ArtCarved class rings & Gold Lance class rings, gifts, collectibles, jewelry boxes, many brands of watches ranging from Pulsar to Rolex, and clocks. An extensive inventory is further enhanced by a unique catalog operation. “Diamond Jim” is an associate gemologist accredited by the Gemological Institute of America. He is one of a select group of jewelers in Houston authorized by State Farm Insurance to provide insurance replacement and appraisal services.
Pineforest Jewelry provides a complete state-of-the-art shop in order to provide you with the best possible service. Gary Mills, and his wife, Aline Budenstein, manage the repair, manufacturing, and wholesale operations. Gary Mills is an associate gemologist accredited by the Gemological Institute of America. He has extensive knowledge of all aspects of repair and manufacturing, as well as knowledge of the tools, equipment, and supplies used by the jewelry trade. Through the shop, not only is jewelry and watch repair provided, but also true custom designs by wax or metal fabrication, computer aided design (CAD), and custom mixing of gold alloys for color matching of castings and repairs. The shop utilizes laser fusion technology for the very finest in repair. The shop is one of the finest in Texas, and its custom work is among the best in the nation. Also offered are hard-to-find specialty services such as baby shoe bronzing, hand engraving, precious stone 
& diamond re-cutting, computer generated laser photo engraving, antique rose and green gold jewelry repair, complete rebuilding of worn gold Rolex watch bracelets, pearl and bead restringing, and many other services. You are invited to take advantage of the gratis ultrasonic jewelry cleaning while you wait.
What makes your store unique to guys getting ready to propose?
1) Provide education in the form of vital diamond buying information; available as an in-store presentation on screen from our website as well as personal tutoring from Diamond Jim
2) Provide a printed booklet, “Your Guide to Buying Diamonds”
3) Provide a 128-page book entitled, “Twenty Ways To Pop The Question” so that she will never, ever forget that day… nor will she ever forget how you carefully created a very special moment in her life
4) Provide diamonds with GIA certification
5) Provide diamonds selected by Diamond Jim that exceed all the competition in value relative to cut, color, clarity, and carat weight
What type of bridal jewelry do you offer?
A complete variety encompassing everything from trio sets to custom masterpieces, with price ranges from a few hundred dollars to $30,000.
What are five tips that you can give to guys searching for rings?
1) NEVER give her a vacuum cleaner, appliance, or cash instead of a ring… even if she says it is OK. (If you risk talking yourself into this trap, you are operating under the advice of a fool.)
2) NEVER give her jewelry from a pawn shop or a flea market… or for that matter, from ANY store that sells underwear. (This is guaranteed to show poor taste and provide proof positive of just how cheap you and the jewelry are.)
3) NEVER give her one piece of jewelry thinking it will cover TWO occasions, such as birthday and anniversary, or Valentine’s Day and birthday. (This is a death knell to any relationship, and possibly for you, literally.)
4) Weed out the incompetents and jerks, and deal with the professionals
5) NEVER make your decision based on anything other than what she wants as far as diamond shape, metal color, and style. (Ask her sister, mother, friends… but NEVER buy what YOU think she will like. NEVER!!!)
For more information about Pine Forest Jewelry, visit their profile.
Shoot Your Wedding: Basic Terminology For Brides
When searching for the right wedding photographer, you will need to know some basic photography terminology. First you will need to consider the style of photography you want. Two of the most popular are traditional and photojournalism. Traditional is the more classic, posed style where photojournalism is capturing the moments and documenting the day as it unfolds. If you are undecided on one or the other, some photographers provide a mix of both. You can read up on styles here.
Once you’ve chosen the style you are looking for, you will also want to have an understanding of some other basic terms to help you with your search.
Digital Imaging
Digital imaging is one of the most exciting innovations in wedding photography. The image is viewable right on the camera so the photographer can immediately know if the image is good or if he needs to shoot again, he doesnt have to wait until the film is processed to find out. Images can also be preserved on CD-ROM instead of negatives.
35mm - Film
The 35mm camera is favored by photojournalists or candid photographers because it has a quicker shutter action, creates better shadow, color contrast, and depth, and is easier to use in more casual situations. The downside is that is has to be processed and the image cannot be instantly reviewed at your wedding. Its also more costly and some of its look can easily be duplicated in digital.
Negative
A negative is the film that has been processed. If its 35mm, it will be rectangular, and if its medium format it will be 2 1/4 inches square.
Camera Originals / Proofs
After the wedding most photographers will setup an online gallery for the Bride and Groom to choose their final pictures to be printed. Usually the photographer will have two or more proofs of each group pose or special moment, such as cake cutting, the bridal party, both sets of parents, etc.
Print / Image
The print or image is the finished product that is yours to frame or put into an album. They have been retouched and airbrushed if you had requested it. Sizes of prints or images usually come in 5X5, 5X7, 8X10, 10X10, 11X17, 16X20, 20X24 and 30X40.
Panoramic
Panoramic refers to the use of a wide angled or panoramic lens to capture a large group portrait or background. This type of shot is often used for the center pages of an album to create one beautifully large photo.
Cropping
Cropping means that something is cut out of the photo or on particular part of the photo is enlarged.
Soft Focus vs. Out of Focus
If you know what to look for, you can notice the difference between a photo that is purposely shot with soft focus or if it was just plain out of focus. If the photo is in focus, you’ll be able to see the “catch light” in peoples eyes.(catch light is the reflection of the flash off the cornea of the eyeball) Even if other parts of the photo look fuzzy, the eyes themselves should be sharp and clear-cut.
Airbrushing and Retouching
Airbrushing and retouching is usually done on digital images to enhance their look and feel. For example, erasing crow’s-feet, eliminating a double chin, or retouching glares or refletions on eye glasses.
Sepia
Sepia is a term describing a photo with an antique quality to it, using a brown tone print.
Natural Color
A Natural color film produces more of a neutral contrast. This gives the photo a look closer to natural sunlight and shade without the use of artifical light.
Vivid Color
The color stands out in the photo because of very well defined tonality in the colors of a print.
Engagement Portrait/Picture
The engagement photo is of the couple either in a studio or outdoors. Its used for save the date invitations and to work with the photographer. Please read our feature on it here.
Bridal Portrait / Picture
The bridal portrait is most often taken in studio, but can also be taken outdoors at a favorite site. Usually the bridal portrait is shot six to eight weeks before the wedding.
Wedding Portrait
The Wedding Portrait process is the same as the Bridal Portrait, except that the groom is also in the picture. This can be done before or after the wedding. You can decide if you want the groom to see you in your gown before the wedding or you can dress up again after the honeymoon. Or you can simply have it taken at the wedding!
Formals
These are posed pictures taken either before or after the ceremony. They’re usually of the two of you with your parents, with the bridal party, etc.
A La Carte vs. Packages
Prices will vary from photographer to photographer. Keep in mind that you are not just hiring someone to take pictures, you’re paying for the creativity and expertise of the photographer.
Photographers may set up a package, or they may charge a shooting or sitting fee, then charge additionally per print(depending on size ordered).
Portfolio / Albums
Your album is made up of the final prints you chose and put together to tell the story of your wedding day. The album may be made of archival paper and have a leather or faux-leather covering, and the prints might have a mat around them or be flush to the edge. A complete album usually takes about forty inserts, with photos on both sides. Albums are usually monogrammed with the name of the bride and groom and the date of the wedding with a photo on the cover.
Shoot Your Wedding: Fusion Sessions
The latest trend in wedding videography blends both still photography and video to create “Fusion,” and its definitely something you do not want to miss. The concept uses both mediums’ strengths in capturing the spirit of the couple before their wedding day. The photographs portray the happiness and emotion of the couple, while the video tells their story and reflects personality.
How does it work?
In most cases, the photographer and videographer work together to setup an engagement session and each person focuses on their particular medium. The results of this collaboration can be incredibly rewarding and having two of your wedding vendors working together will make you feel more confident when they arrive on your wedding day. Sometimes videographers or photographers will try to do both stills and video, which usually has mixed, but mostly pleasing results. Be aware that “Fusion” is very new, so you will need to shop around to find someone that offers it.
What does the finished product look like?
The finished product is typically a two-four minute film that is shareable with friends and family online or by DVD. “Fusion” makes the engagement session even more valuable and can help your guests understand your story in a visual form.
Check out some examples of “Fusion” below:
“The Luscious Life” (7D Film) from Blayre Ellestad on Vimeo.
Shannon + Joel E-Session Film from Joe Simon Films on Vimeo.
Premium Vendor Showcase: Bessie Black Photography
What was your inspiration for being a photographer?
I always knew I would own my own business. It wasn’t until high school that photography came about- I always took pictures, but when my cousin got married when I was in HS, I kind of put the two together and found my passion as a wedding photographer. During high school I was involved in Yearbook, which helped my photography grow with a couple of large projects to realize my love of the field. After high school I spent some time at Blue Ridge Community College in the Marketing & Business program, while also taking photography courses. . Once deciding that photography was my true focus, I found the art Institute of Fort Lauderdale and finished there with an Associates in Photography.
What makes you unique to brides?
- 10+ years of bridal shop knowledge (adjusting a veil, making a bustle, groomsmen boutonnieres, advice on do’s & don’ts – years of knowledge of the makings of weddings & actual day of!
- Always willing to lend a hand, very flexible, and willing to please.
- Always adding to my product line to ensure that there is something for everyone.
What services do you offer?
- Wedding services- wedding day coverage, various levels of professional albums, including the coffee table style albums, wedding prints & enlargements, Digital Image DVD, online hosting, engagement & bridal portraits, save the date cards, and surprise proposal storytelling (live from your day of engagement – capture it as it really happens).
What is your style of photography?
It changes from couple to couple, but I try to keep it simple & always about the bride and the groom and their personal style. Its really a mixture of traditional & candid photojournalism.
What are five tips that you can give to brides looking for a photographer?
- Be sure to ask all of your questions, but remember that this person will be with you all day on the most important day. You need to be comfortable with them and feel totally at ease in their presence. This to me is most important; I build relationships through my couples & families.
- Think about your wedding and where it is going to be. Make sure to make the most of all of your decorations & flowers. The little details and special unique personal touches can really enhance your wedding and the photography from it. Keep in mind that pictures resemble your day and we photograph the story as it is told.
- A photographer should show you what there is to offer, but it is also good to hear from you as well! If you know what you want, great! Share it with us. If you do not know, we will guide you and explain to you what the products and services are about, and talk about your day and what will work best for you and your budget.
- While attending a bridal show, the vendors are there for you. We want to share our information with you, talk about our services, how we can help you. Please do not be shy in stopping and looking through our albums and getting to know us!
- Enjoy your planning process, but be sure to hire trained professionals. This is essential in having a beautiful stress free day. We have done this before (and we love it) and so many times we can spot & resolve an issue before it becomes a problem. Trust who you are working with and you will have a wonderful day!
For more information about Bessie Black Photography, please visit her vendor profile.
Shoot Your Wedding: Photo Montages
More often than not, the bride and groom will take their photos and make their own slideshow using a program like iMovie or Powerpoint, but they usually are often very long and uninteresting compared to a professional. So what can a professional do to make your slideshow better?
Well the biggest trend these days is a 3-D montage and its incredibly impressive. The videographer basically cuts out parts of your 2-D image and overlays them over the original photo to create a 3D effect. Its then animated to match your story. The best part though is that it does not necessary have to apply to your wedding day photos. Most couples are opting for montages of them growing up and then playing it during the reception.
Here are a few of my favorite montages:
Mervietta Animated 3D Photo Montage from Joel Granholm on Vimeo.
Christine and Sang from imacron on Vimeo.
Shoot Your Wedding: Questions To Ask A Videographer
A video account of your wedding is a unique and incredible story that is worth preserving right. As a videographer, I take great pride in preserving a families history and it is essential that you ask the right questions when determining your videographer. Here are some questions to ask your potential videographer that will help you find the style and technique for your personal tastes.
1) How will my movie sound?
Most couples get caught up in image quality and forget to ask about the other big portion of your video, which is sound. Be sure to ask how they will be capturing the vows and if you will be able to select the soundtrack. Wireless is the least obtrusive option!
2) How will you handle lighting?
Lighting is a key issue that we face mostly at the reception. Unlike the photographer, who uses flash, videographers need continuous sources of light in order to capture your special moments. If you plan to do something only lit with candles or very low lighting, definitely let your videographer know so they can bring the proper lighting gear.
3) How do you plan to tell the story of my day?
Is the style cinematic, documentary, or more traditional? This will determine what type of gear they will be using and how obtrusive their equipment might be.
4) How long will it take to get my finished movie?
Some videographers can deliver in two weeks, while others can take months!
5) Are you “preferred” by the other companies I have hired?
If one of your wedding vendors has worked with your potential videographer in the past, then they will be able to tell you a little bit about them. Generally photographers and videographers who have worked together will have a much better relationship than those that have not.
6) May I see other clients’ movies and read what they had to say about them?
Always ask to seem a sample before you commit to a videographer. While the film might not reflect your style or personality, it will still give you a small impression of what to expect.
7) How do you get the shots without being “in the way?”
Make sure you are comfortable with their style of shooting.We frequently use the Steadicam, which is a device that prevents camera shake. While it produces incredible results, it looks like a crazy contraption and is more noticeable. So definitely ask about what equipment your videographer may be using in order to prevent giving any odd looks.
Why are your services more or less expensive than other companies?
Always consider what type of equipment they are using and the experience they are offering to you. Just like anything else you buy, expensive is usually better than cheap, but it also depends on their background and if they are just starting in wedding video.
9) What do you do to make sure our movie is unique to our personalities?
Most videographers send out lengthy questionnaires when you book to get an idea of who you are and what matters most to you. Be sure they offer something like that! Otherwise you might not get what you want.
10) What types of camera, tapes, microphones, and special equipment is used?
Ask them to explain how certain effects are achieved and to outline the benefit of using certain technologies.
Shoot Your Wedding: Questions to Ask A Photographer
Here are some great questions to ask potential wedding photographers. Hopefully they will lead you to a match for your style and budget!
Will he/she be taking the photos at your wedding?
If not, you should meet the person who will be and ask him/her these questions.
Are they are a member of any associations or groups specific to the industy?
If the photographer is a member of an association, he is networking with other professionals and is most likely up to date with current trends and styles of photography. Members also have access to continuing education and other resources that non-members do not have.
What styles do they specialize in? Do they do any creative shoots?
You want to make sure the photographer is comfortable shooting the style you prefer. Communicate what style you want.
What type of camera will the photographer use?
You will get a sense about the photographers knowledge and experience.
Does the photographer use an assistant? Is there an extra charge for this?
Usually an assistant who knows and understands wedding photography is there and makes your photographer’s job faster and easier.
Will there be backup equipment available? And what happens if the photographer is ill?
You want to be sure the photographer is prepared in case of emergency. Make sure your wedding photographer has adequate backup equipment of the same type and quality. Also, you want to know the backup photographer is someone you would want to photograph your wedding. Definitely look for this in the contract!
Can other people take photos while you are taking photos?
Some photographers will not allow others to take pictures at the same time he/she is. The other cameras flash may effect the photographers photo or may distract the people in the photo to look another way. The answer to this question may be important to you if you want others to freely shoot photos during your formal session.
Has he/she worked at your event locations before? How did it work out?
Lighting issues and restrictions on using flashes may come up as a surprise once you are at your event location. If your photographer checks out the location beforehand, he will be prepared for these surprises.
Should your event last longer than scheduled, will they stay? Extra charge?
Sometimes the day can last longer than expected, and if so, is the photographer willing to stay and at what cost to you?
How many photos come in each package? What is the breakdown per photo?
You should have an idea of how many photos you want and what you are getting with the package.
What types of photos will be taken (B/W, Color, Antiques, etc..)?
You should know what type you want and if the photographer is willing to take more of what you want.
Will they accept of list from you, for specific photos to be taken?
Make sure the photographer is willing to accept a list of your must haves!
What attire will they and their assistants wear?
You want to make sure they will look professional!
How long after the event will the proofs be ready?
This could vary drastically from 2 months to 6 months!
What type and how much assistance will they provide in planning your album?
It is nice to have a professional assist you in planning your album, it can be a bit overwhelming if you are not sure what you want.
Will they give you the digital files? Is there a charge?
Photographers have the rights to their photographs and may not want to give up the negatives or digital full resolution files. It may be an added cost on the contract.
Does he/she have liability insurance?
You want to know if the photographer carries insurance to cover the cost if something goes terribly wrong. It will be stated in the contract. So be sure to look for it!
Shoot Your Wedding: The Engagement Session
The “Engagement Session” is undoubtedly one of the biggest trends in the wedding photography and videography industry, but its also one of the most helpful for your photographer/videographer. Since it is unlikely that you have ever worked with a professional photographer/videographer, it is natural that you might feel a bit nervous about having your photograph taken in a public setting. Since your wedding day is not the best time to realize those additional pressures, working with your photographer to capture photographs of your recent engagement allows you both to become more comfortable in front of the camera (and in front of other people). During the session the photographer will gain a better perspective of your personalities, best expressions, and quirks. The photographer will also offer a ton of advice related to planning and the ring exchange so that he can get the best possible images during those important moments. Not only will this advice help you during the wedding, but you can relax knowing what the photographer is like instead of being surprised at the wedding.
Choosing Locations
The location for your engagement session can vary based on your preferences or lifestyle. You may choose to meet where you were engaged or where you had your first date. Or you may want to meet somewhere like your home, the beach, a local park, your favorite restaurant, the zoo, or even Disneyland. Your choices are practically limitless and are bounded only by the restrictions of the venue.
Sharing The Photos From Your Session
Once you take the photos, you can use them for your invitations, guest book, and share them all your friends on Facebook or WhereToGetEngaged.com.
Here are some of my favorite photos and videos of the engagement session:
Images provided by Jodi Miller Photography
Vanessa & Armando Engagement Shoot from Ray Roman on Vimeo
Iva & Daniel – Cinematic Engagement Video from Robert Balasko on Vimeo
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Find the Ring
Plan the Proposal
Plan the Wedding
